Athletic trainers are more than just trainers – we support our athletes mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Simeen Jumma, a triple major in Kinesiology and Health Education from San Antonio, will be graduating this spring with bachelor’s degrees in exercise science, athletic training and applied movement science. She will put those majors to good use as she pursues a career in physical therapy and sports medicine.
Originally a nursing student, Jumma switched to athletic training to continue her academic journey. Jumma served as a sports medicine aide for Texas Women’s Basketball and was active in UT’s Muslim Student Association.
Kelvin Phan, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, described Jumma as a model student who consistently gives 110%, particularly in her work providing medical services to student-athletes.
In her role as one of the coordinators for the Sports Medicine Mentoring Program, I’ve had the opportunity to see her potential and leadership capacity firsthand,
Phan said. She demonstrates a combination of poise, critical thinking, commitment and efficiency beyond someone of her age and experience. The work Simeen has poured into our program, the department, the college and her own growth sets a high standard for those who follow in her footsteps.
Q&A with Simeen Jumma
What drew you to UT initially?
The accessibility to home definitely drew me to UT. I could have a typical college life while also being able to visit my family whenever I needed.
How did you decide to pursue a triple major, and how did each program shape your academic journey in different ways?
I decided to pursue a triple major after noticing the overlap between the three fields. Athletic training was originally my only major, but I realized that adding the others would help me stand out. The hands-on experiences in athletic training gave me insight into what a master’s-level program would be like, while exercise science and applied movement science taught me the underlying biology and physiology.
Together, they’ve given me an understanding of what I want to do in my career.
Did you always know you wanted to study exercise science and athletic training or did those interests develop over time?
Before exploring kinesiology and health education, I initially enrolled in UT’s nursing program. I quickly realized that it wasn’t the path I wanted to pursue. While researching other programs, I decided to try exercise science. After my freshman year, I switched majors and applied to the athletic training program.
What were some of your favorite aspects of the KHE program?
I love how I know someone in every class. Since my sophomore year, I’ve worked with the same group of 12 people in my athletic training classes, and we’ve grown very close. Even in other kinesiology courses, I see familiar faces and the smaller class sizes allow us to connect in a way that wouldn’t be possible in larger programs.
How did your involvement in UT’s Muslim Student Association influence your campus experience?
Connecting with other Ismaili Muslims on campus creates a bond that’s hard to describe. We celebrate our religion and culture together and as a smaller community, we’ve gotten to know each other very well. Being part of a group completely separate from kinesiology and athletic training has also given me a new broader perspective on college life.
There were times when attending mosque conflicted with other social events, but I’m grateful I chose to embrace my culture and experience my religion with others in my community.
In what ways did working with Texas Women’s Basketball enhance your learning?
Working as a sports medicine aide and gaining hands-on experience has had the greatest impact on my college career. Through that experience, I’ve come to understand the highs and lows of this field and to see the impact beyond treating injuries. Athletic trainers are more than just trainers – we support our athletes mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Every aspect of that role has shaped my education and taught me far more than just physical wellness and treatments.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the future? How do you envision your career evolving, whether in physical therapy or another path?
I plan to take a gap year to focus on my personal business before returning to school to pursue a degree in physical therapy. Sports medicine is my passion, but I’ve also developed a strong appreciation for education and teaching. I can see myself combining both in my future career.
